Functional NIC, Non-functional NIC | Dell MD3000I specification

5Execute the iscsiutl program and type: a ISCSIUTL -FE-ALL

b ISCSIUTL -UP -ALL

c ISCSIUTL -RESTORE -FILE <FILENAME> -NIC <#> where FILENAME is the name that you enter and # is the NIC number.

NOTE: For a list applicable commands/parameters, see "iSCSI Utility MS-DOS Commands" on page 60.

6If you are working with a dual-port NIC, repeat sub-step c for the second port.

Determining iSCSI Boot Configuration Settings from a Failed NIC

In the event the NIC fails and the boot configuration file has not been saved, depending on the type of failure, it may be possible to identify the settings and save them to a new configuration file.

Functional NIC

If your NIC card is defective but still functioning, you can use the iSCSI utility program (iscsiutl.exe) to attempt to save the configuration that may be stored in the defective NIC’s NVRAM.

If the configuration is not retrievable from the defective NIC’s NVRAM (using the iscsiutl program), you can manually enter the configuration settings into the iSCSI Boot menu prior to replacing the failed NIC and record the settings.

NOTICE: Ensure that you record the settings accurately. Any incorrect setting may cause the host to not boot.

Non-functional NIC

If the NIC is non-functional and the settings cannot be retrieved, some of the settings can be obtained from the storage system.

NOTE: If your system uses CHAP, the boot settings cannot be retrieved from the storage system management software. This may impact other hosts connected to the server. In this scenario, you must remove and reconfigure the CHAP settings similar to a new deployment.

Replacing Intel NIC Configured for BFi

MD3000I specifications

The Dell MD3000i is a high-performance storage solution designed to meet the demanding needs of businesses requiring reliable and scalable storage systems. Part of the Dell PowerVault series, the MD3000i offers a robust platform that supports both iSCSI and direct-attach connectivity options, making it versatile enough to fit various IT environments.

One of the primary features of the MD3000i is its ability to support multiple RAID configurations, including RAID 0, 1, 5, 10, 50, and 60, which ensures data protection and performance optimization. This flexibility allows organizations to tailor their storage setup based on their specific needs, whether prioritizing speed or redundancy.

The system supports up to 15 expansion enclosures, which allows users to scale their storage capacity significantly. The MD3000i can accommodate up to 192TB of raw storage when fully configured, making it suitable for environments with large amounts of data. Additionally, the modular design of the MD3000i means that businesses can easily add drives as needed, thereby reducing upfront costs.

In terms of performance, the MD3000i features hot-swappable drives, helping minimize downtime during maintenance and upgrades. This design philosophy extends to other components as well, allowing for easier management and greater efficiency. The system is also equipped with dual active controllers that provide failover capabilities, ensuring high availability for mission-critical applications.

Another significant aspect of the Dell MD3000i is its integration with various storage management software options, which allow for simplified administration and monitoring. Features such as snapshots and volume cloning aid in data protection and recovery processes, providing additional layers of security for critical information.

Moreover, the MD3000i supports seamless integration with existing server infrastructures and virtualization platforms, enhancing its appeal for organizations looking to modernize their data storage without complete overhauls of their systems. Its compatibility with multiple operating systems and environments makes it a flexible choice for companies of all sizes.

In summary, the Dell MD3000i stands out for its scalability, performance, and reliability in data storage. With features that promote ease of management and strong data protection mechanisms, it is an excellent choice for businesses looking to enhance their storage solutions in a cost-effective manner.